A BOARD member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has submitted fresh contractual terms, including a proposed increase in his monthly salary from $50,000 to $130,000, a package that would also cover his backroom staff.
News Point Nigeria Sport reports that the request, which is subject to review and approval by the NFF’s technical committee and executive board, comes despite Chelle still having one year left on his current contract.
Chelle’s future has become a subject of intense discussion following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The Super Eagles went unbeaten in seven matches during the tournament, losing only in the semi-final to the host nation on penalties.
The team scored 14 goals, Nigeria’s highest tally in a single AFCON campaign — strengthening the case for continuity under the Franco-Malian tactician.
While the NFF president has previously expressed a desire to retain him, the fresh demands have introduced a new layer of scrutiny to the renewal process.
“Let us not forget that Chelle still has one year left on his current contract. These are fresh demands to be considered for renewal, which remains subject to debate, especially with these terms. This is for the technical committee to review before presenting to the board for approval,” the NFF board member said.
According to reports, Chelle’s proposals go beyond salary adjustments. UK-based journalist Shina Oludare indicated that the coach submitted 19 requests, including:
A private SUV with chauffeur and security detail
Accommodation in a well-secured area with stable electricity
A furnished office equipped with a projector for tactical analysis
Flight tickets for his wife and two children
Provision of technical equipment aligned with his specifications
Influence over the selection of friendly matches
Full autonomy in team selection
He is also reportedly seeking structured access to domestic league matches to scout talent for the senior national team as well as the U-23, U-20 and U-17 squads. Additionally, Chelle is said to have requested that his personal assistant be included in the official bonus and allowance framework.
The demands were reportedly submitted on January 22, intensifying discussions about the terms of any potential renewal.
Chelle’s negotiating position appears strengthened by interest elsewhere on the continent. Tunisia is reportedly prepared to offer the coach a salary in the region of $100,000 per month.
He has also been loosely linked with a possible opportunity in France after recently changing representation.
Chelle has parted ways with his former agent, Abraham Sidibe, who brokered his appointment as Super Eagles coach and is now represented by Wilders Sport in Marseille.
“It is time for me to take myself to another level. I felt that this agency will give me the required support and advice that I need to do this,” Chelle was quoted as saying.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract, Chelle is expected to name a squad ahead of next month’s international window, during which Nigeria will face Jordan in a friendly scheduled between March 23 and 31.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles are awaiting a FIFA decision on their protest against DR Congo for allegedly fielding ineligible players during the 2026 World Cup African play-off final last November. A favourable ruling could see Nigeria advance to the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico, significantly reshaping their international calendar.
For now, the NFF technical committee is expected to review Chelle’s proposals before forwarding recommendations to the board. With continental interest growing and expectations high at home, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Chelle’s tenure with the Super Eagles continues under revised terms or enters a new chapter elsewhere.